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Summer of Play

This summer, enjoy Hardwick’s top tier Orchard of Play!

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

There are interactive games for everyone at Hardwick’s bigger and better Summer of Play!

Take a trip back in time to enjoy some Elizabethan themed entertainment activities, including: a chance to don a costume and showcase your favourite stories or moves in one of our stages, make a tune on our music station, or challenge a friend to a game of giant chess.

Engage with the natural world at the Nature Nook which will be a treat for the senses! There will be lots to explore, learn and discover.

For the more competitive kids, watch them compete in races, hurdles, football, tennis and badminton. Or why not set up an archery competition and see if you can find the next Robin Hood!

Let's not forget the little ones, the Tot’s Spot is a haven of soft play, bean bags, cushions and relaxed games, perfect for young families or siblings wanting to play together.

Looking for more out of your visit? Try one of these free activities below, perfect for the whole family. Find out more about each one on the main event page.

• Mondays | Minibeast Safaris

• Selected Tuesdays & Thursday | Craft Activities

• Selected Wednesdays | Storytelling & Singing

For non-members of the National Trust, or visitors without a general admission ticket to the House and Gardens, the Wider Estate admission fees apply:

• Adult: £6.00

• Child: £3.00

• Family (2 adults, 2 children): £15.00

• Family (1 adult, 2 children): £9.00

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Meeting point

The activity zones will be the North Orchard, please proceed to Visitor reception as normal and you’ll be directed on where to go.

What to bring and wear

The activity zones are all outdoors, please dress for the Great British weather! Wellies may be needed if visiting after heavy rainfall and suncream for those extra warm days.

Upcoming events

Event

Create With Us: Creative Writing Workshop 

Come and join us for creative writing workshops through the year exploring themes of Elizabethan festivals, changes in the seasons, or empowering women.

Event summary

on
2 Aug to 6 Dec 2025
at
10:00 to 11:15
+ 4 other dates or times
Event

Material Power: Rewoven 

Material Power continues in 2025, displaying 16 contemporary textile artworks amongst the internationally renowned textile collection.

Event summary

on
2 Aug to 31 Oct 2025
at
11:00 to 15:30
+ 90 other dates or times
Event

Adventure Cinema: QUEEN OUTDOOR CINEMA SPECTACULAR (12) 

An incredible movie and concert cinema experience!

Event summary

on
2 Aug 2025
at
18:30 to 22:30
Event

Earth Photo 2025 at Hardwick 

Engage with thought-provoking photographs inspired by climate change and the environment.

Event summary

on
3 Aug to 31 Aug 2025
at
09:00 to 17:00
+ 28 other dates or times